The story begins with their maritime family history from Maine, one of the country's largest seafaring states at the time. After making a name for himself on his first command of a clipper ship, Joshua was given command of the Neptune's Car which was to sail from Boston around Cape Horn to San Francisco. For those unfamiliar with Cape Horn, it is at the southern tip of South America and remains to this day one of the most treacherous bodies of water to navigate.
Being newlyweds and not wanting to be alone with her family, Mary Ann accompanied her husband on this voyage. Keeping busy during the long voyage, she learned to read the stars and charts for navigation. This soon became necessary when Joshua, the ship's captain, became seriously ill and unable to perform his role. Despite challenges from the first- and second-mate, Mary Ann won the admiration and trust of the crew. Her stamina and will were tested as they fought through an eighteen day gale in the freezing waters near Antarctica.
Mary Ann Patten wasn't the only female to captain a ship in those days but many of their stories have been left untold.
If you enjoyed: The Wager by David Grann or the movie Widow Clicquot
Perfect for: Readers who enjoy maritime adventures or the grit of courageous women.
Also written by Tilar Mazzeo:
The Sea Captain's Wife is available at the library in regular print, and as an eBook through FCPL’s digital collection.
Joan Dudzinski
Branch Manager
Cumming Library
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